Belagavi is set to see the long-awaited construction of a Railway Overbridge (RoB) at the second railway gate (Level Crossing 382) in Tilakwadi. MP Jagdish Shettar announced that tenders will be invited soon, with work expected to commence in early April. The project aims to ease traffic congestion at one of the city’s busiest railway crossings.
This approval is part of a broader RoB development plan, including projects at Kapileshwar, Old PB Road, Gogte Circle, and the partially completed Third Gate RoB. However, the proposed flyover at Tanaji Galli has been scrapped, with the level crossing there scheduled to close on March 10.
Concerns Over First and Second Gate RoBs
While the second gate RoB is welcomed, concerns persist over the feasibility of both the first gate (Level Crossing 383) and second gate projects. The Third Gate RoB remains incomplete, with only one section operational, raising doubts about the execution of new infrastructure plans.
A key issue is the absence of proper connecting ramps. Without additional connectivity, routes like Congress Road may not benefit from the new bridge. Typically, railway authorities build only the main overbridge, leaving urban connectivity gaps that could lead to traffic chaos.
Risk of Poor Planning and Congestion
Experts and residents highlight the challenges posed by closely packed buildings near the first and second gates. A standard RoB design, without considering the surrounding urban landscape, could repeat past mistakes—like the Third Gate RoB, which continues to face accessibility issues and congestion.
Given the dense construction in these areas, a well-planned approach is essential. If executed without foresight, Belagavi risks another infrastructure project that adds to traffic woes rather than resolving them.
